Five things you can do if you think you have the flu

Covering your cough and washing your hands may not be enough to prevent you from catching the flu. So, if those body aches, fever and congestion have you concerned, here are some tips and services from Beaufort Memorial Hospital: 

1. Stay home. 

Researchers now know that the flu can be transmitted simply by breathing the same air as someone with the virus. No matter how badly you think you’re needed at work or school, do yourself and everyone else a favor and stay home.

2. Wear a mask. 

Please see item 1. For years we believed that covering your cough and washing your hands was enough to contain the virus, but if you’re living with other people, their risk of exposure is very high. Wearing a mask when you’re around others will prevent them from getting sick, too. 

3. Schedule a virtual visit. 

You can now see a doctor anytime, anywhere using your smartphone, tablet or computer equipped with a camera using BMH Care Anywhere. Download the app for free, or visit www.bmhcareanywhere.org. For just $59 a doctor can evaluate, diagnose and prescribe, if appropriate.  

4. Visit the Flu Fast Track. 

If your symptoms are worsening and you can’t wait to be seen Beaufort Memorial’s ER is offering a new, Flu Fast Track from 3 to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday, to help get you on your way quickly. Patients with classic flu symptoms will be triaged, tested and treated immediately.  

5. Use ER Online Check-In and skip the wait. 

If you need to get to the ER and the Flu Fast Track is closed, you can still schedule a visit using the hospital’s ER Online Check-In service and do your waiting at home. You’ll be more comfortable, and you won’t risk spreading the flu in a packed ER waiting room. Visit www.bmhsc.org and click “Check-In Online” on the home page. 

“The last place you need to be if you think you have the flu is in a busy waiting room, or any public area where you risk infecting others,” says BMH Emergency Center Director Kevin Kremer. “Our goal is to provide the community with access and advice to get the care they need, when they need it, and to prevent the spread of infection.”

To learn more visit www.BeaufortMemorial.org.